Technology is not good or bad. It has no morality.
Technology creates capability and convenience.
It makes it easier for people to do what they
do and to be who they are.
It doesn’t teach us moderation or responsibility.
We have to learn that on our own.
While we become more easily connected to others,
we also become increasingly susceptible to ignoring the people right in front
of us.
At the same time we enjoy the convenience of a
quick call, we also risk ignoring the car that just stopped short for no
apparent reason.
Technology is not responsible for these actions.
It’s not selective.
But, we can be – if we think about what we’re doing.
Is there someone or something in front of me
that should have my complete attention – right now?
Is this call, IM, or email more
important than they are?
Am I creating a hazard?
Ironically, technology can make us both more connected and more disconnected – at the very same time – if we’re not paying attention.
Hi Howie!
I think people need to take control of how they use technology – and it’s those uses that can be positive or negative. We are what we are – we just do it with different tools!!
Thanks for stopping by!!!
Ann
It’s indeed ironic that technology brought negative things to most people instead of its benefits.
Karin –
What a great point. Perhaps this is an especially difficult time to find that balance because new things spring up more frequently. We never get passed the novelty stage.
On the other hand, cell phones have been around for a long time and I still see many people (and I’m guilty sometimes too) ignoring the people they’re with – or treating service people (gas station attendants, wait staff, baristas, etc.) as though they’re not even there because they’re talking on the phone.
Sometimes we just aren’t aware of what our actions are communicating to others (i.e., you’re not important enough to warrant my full attention).
You always make me think a little deeper – thanks!
Ann
Charlie:
How true! Ironically (on the other send of the spectrum) we can also only derive the benefits if we make the decision to do so.
Ann
Hi Ann
It’s like with every ‘tool’ that apparently makes our lives easier, quicker. After the ‘craze’ of its novelty (and who hasn’t set in front of the new tv-set, dvd-player, vcr etc for hours and hours) we have to find it a proper place in our live.
We have to integrate it with all those other handy, practical, never-miss-anything-anymore new tools in such a way it becomes our new nice and comfortable balance we love to be in/with.
Karin H. (Keep It Simple Sweetheart, specially in business)
Nice post. It’s true that technology has brought both positive and negative things in our lives. However, the negative part is only true if we let it happen to us.